Located in the southernmost point of the US, The Florida Keys are a chain of limestone islands extending from Key Largo to Dry Tortugas in the Gulf of Mexico. These islands offer many activities for beach adventure enthusiasts. You can catch breathtaking sunsets, sail, snorkel, dolphin watch, tour historic landmarks, and kayak through mangrove trails. Other activities include feeding the tarpan, trying an original Rum Runner, and indulging in Key Lime Pie. Here is a list of top outdoor activities that you should add to your bucket list if you’re planning a visit.
Dry Tortugas is a national park located off the coast of Florida and features historic Fort Jefferson. The park is made up of seven islands, with Garden Key being the location of the fort. Fort Jefferson is impressive in size and structure. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities due to the crystal-clear water surrounding the islands, and visitors can see marine life and coral reefs. To get to Dry Tortugas, visitors can take a seaplane or ferry from Key West.
Watching the sunset is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Key West. The best spots to catch a sunset include Sunset Pier at Mallory Square, Fort Zachary Taylor, Latitudes at Sunset Key Cottages, or from a Sunset Cruise. All these locations offer a stunning sunset view.
The eco tours provided in Key West are the best way to experience the water activities Key West has to offer. Tours can include sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, dolphin watching, or all of the above. All tour options are led by knowledgeable and passionate guides who prioritize protecting the environment. It’s an opportunity to enjoy a fun and adventurous day while exploring Key West’s beautiful ecosystem.
Tour the residence of Ernest Hemingway and his family from 1931 to 1961. You can take guided or self-guided tours of the property, which includes a Spanish Colonial-style house, lush gardens, and over 40 “Hemingway cats.” The museum also features a gift shop with books and souvenirs related to Hemingway and his works. It’s an added bonus for history, architecture, and literature enthusiasts.
Explore the beauty of nature on a kayak and snorkeling adventure through the park’s 50 miles of natural mangroves and a beautiful coral reef in Key Largo. Observe marine species while paddling through the winding waterways. Snorkel to experience the diverse ecosystem of the coral reef and see the underwater statue, Christ of the Abyss, surrounded by fish and other marine life. It’s a surreal and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The classic cocktail, Rum Runner, was created during the prohibition era in Florida Keys. La Siesta Resort & Villas in Islamorada served up the first crafted Rum Runner 70 years ago at their iconic Holiday Isle Tiki Bar. The authentic version of the drink is a blend of rum, blackberry brandy, banana liqueur, grenadine, and lime juice. La Siesta Resort & Villas offers beautiful ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect place to unwind with an original Rum Runner.
Robbie’s of Islamorada is a must-visit marina for anyone traveling to the Florida Keys. At this marina you can enjoy lunch at the Hungry Tarpon before feeding the tarpon, a fish that can grow up to eight feet long and weigh as much as 280 pounds! You can purchase a bucket of bait and watch these massive fish jump out of the water to catch the bait you toss to them. It’s a unique experience that allows you to get up close to these large, acrobatic creatures.
Meet rescue sea turtles and get a behind-the-scenes look at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, FL. Turtle Hospital rescues and rehabilitates sea turtles while educating the public about their vital role in the ocean. The facility is state-of-the-art and visitors can learn about the turtles’ unique personalities and stories. It has a rich history as the first turtle hospital in the US that was once a hotel. A visit to the Turtle Hospital in Marathon will give you a new appreciation for these sea creatures’ significance.
The Dolphin Research Center offers unique and unforgettable experiences, such as in-water dolphin encounters. Visitors can interact with the dolphins, receive a kiss and handshake, and experience a dorsal pull. For a more exclusive experience, the Ultimate Trainer Day or VIP Experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at dolphin training and care.
The Florida Keys offer an abundance of outdoor activities that are worth exploring. However, we believe that there are always hidden gems waiting to be discovered, and we would love to hear your thoughts. What outdoor activities in The Florida Keys inspire you? We encourage you to share your ideas. Let’s discover the beauty of The Florida Keys together!
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